Interactive touch screens direct travelers at MSP airport

Static directories listing amenities at MSP airport are giving way to digital directories that allow travelers simply touch a screen to find what they are looking for.

The airport recently installed four of the large interactive directories on the C Concourse, one at each of the stops served by the tramway.

The four-sided directories look somewhat like a large cell phone with apps that passengers can tap to get information on flight status, gate information, ground transportation information and airport maps. For those who have time between flights or arrive at the airport early, the directories also has listings for nearby shops and restaurants replete with menus, deals and discounts offered by merchants, and where travelers can find specific merchandise.

Each screen is 55 inches for easy access.

The also offers the same type of information on its FlySMart mobile application.

"The moblie app and touch-screen directories together map the way to a first-rate airport experience," said Pat Hogan, director of public affairs and marketing for the Metropolitan Airports Commission, the agency which oversees MSP. "the devices help travelers find their gate, choose restaurants and ships that fit their taste and budget, and identify locations of the specific merchandise and services."

MSP was one of the first airports in the United States to install the touch-screen directories when they debut in 2010 in the airport mall. With the new screens, MSP now has six of the interactive screens.